Telemedicine is increasing physician/patient interactions and making it easier for patients to access mental health care, according to a study released Monday by CVS Health.
In the 2022 Health Care Insights Study, 53% of physicians surveyed said virtual care options helped increase the number of patient visits; 48% of consumers polled said they were more likely to seek out mental health services if a virtual visit is available. More than 1 in 3 patients said they have scheduled a virtual healthcare appointment to save time and money.
The study also revealed how the COVID-19 pandemic provided potential opportunities to innovate healthcare as many consumers struggled to maintain their health and take medications during periods of isolation. Nearly all providers said interventions, such as text reminders or phone follow-ups could help patients better adhere to prescribed care plans.
“The pandemic changed nearly everything about our world including the way many consumers view the importance of their health,” CVS Health President and CEO Karen S. Lynch said in a statement. “As we look to the future, CVS Health is uniquely positioned to reimagine healthcare that is centered around people [and is] simpler, more accessible, and more affordable, with better health outcomes.”
The Health Care Insights Study was released for the first time in 2018. This year’s study polled 1,000 consumers and 400 healthcare providers across the U.S. The study aimed to find out what kind of healthcare experience consumers want and the barriers they encounter accessing that care.
CVS Health has transformed in recent years from a retail pharmacy chain to a holistic healthcare provider. The company offers in-store primary care through its MinuteClinics and virtual primary care. It also offers a home health product line. CVS executives have also said they are interested in either acquiring a home care firm or launching one of their own.
